Does this sound familiar- you pack up for your first camping trip in your RV, and when it comes time to load the bikes, they end up tossed in the back of your truck or stored inside the RV in complete chaos. I’ve been there quite a few times, and it didn’t take too long before I realized I needed to develop a better solution for storing my bike. While I eventually went with a hitch-mounted bike rack for the back of my travel trailer, I’ll share with you all of the options since there isn’t a one shoe fits all solution for every RV owner’s situation.
Whether you’re taking a short trip to your local campground or heading off on a 3,000 cross-country road trip, if you’re reading this article, you probably like to bring your bikes with you. As your family grows, so will your bikes and bike transport challenges.
Bringing your bikes along if you own an RV can be cumbersome, especially if you have a towable RV like a travel trailer or Fifth Wheel. Perhaps you’re used to hitching a bike rack to the back of your truck or SUV, but now you have a trailer. Like anything in the RV life, storage needs to be intentional, and everything needs to have its own solution. Luckily, there are some great bikes carrying solutions that can be used for any setup and RV.
If you want to jump ahead, here are some links:
In a Travel Trailer (and this applies to most RVs), the available options for transporting your bikes to the campground include the following:
Options for Transporting Bikes
- Carry them in the RV: This is an excellent solution if you have a toy hauler. If not, you’ll likely need to place the bikes on the floor of your RV.
- In the back of the truck: If you have a travel trailer, you can store the bikes in the back of your truck, assuming it didn’t get packed with other camping supplies.
- Bike Rack: Like on a regular vehicle, a bike rack serves a specific purpose. The challenge is where to mount it. There are several different styles to choose from, including a hitch, rear bumper, ladder, tongue, or truck bed.
Let’s look into these a little more and discuss the pros and cons of each option.
Carrying Bikes in your RV
After spending a small fortune on your RV, camping supplies, and campground fees, the thought of purchasing something else may not be too exciting. However, if you still want to take your bikes with you, you need a way to transport them.
Luckily, when you’re not living in your RV, you have a big empty floorspace to carry your bikes. So even if your family has a lot of bikes, you can usually fit them inside your RV. Doing this is pretty straightforward. When you pack up your RV, plan to keep the floor clear for your bikes.
The hardest part of this method is carrying them through the door and maneuvering any tight turns to get them where you want. Since things bounce around in the trailer while traveling, I suggest placing them toward the front if possible. You may need to take the front tire off larger adult bikes if you have some tight spaces.
This keeps them more secure. Since you likely don’t have anything to secure them to, connecting them with a few bungy cords works great. I also like to block them in with other soft items like bags, blankets, or pillows to they don’t damage the interior when traveling.
Pros of Carrying your bikes inside your RV:
- Free: You don’t need additional racks, straps, or items to carry your bikes.
- Keeps them dry: If it rains while traveling, the bikes won’t get wet, and you won’t be dealing with bike maintenance issues from exposure to the elements.
- Frees up space for other items: Bikes are not heavy but take up a lot of space. So if you need to carry heavier items in your truck, putting the bikes in your RV will free up valuable space for heavier items, which are better to carry in your truck.
Cons of Carrying your bikes inside your RV:
- Carrying them inside: Just because you have floor space doesn’t mean it’s always easy to carry bikes inside to store them. You must maneuver them through the door, deal with tight spaces or turns, and work around obstructions like slide-outs and furniture.
- Wear and Tear on RV: Bikes ridden at the RV park or home can get dirty, and the grime can easily fall off inside your RV. You will likely need to clean your RV floor before camping. This is especially true if you’re packing up on a rainy day.
- Potential damage: If bikes shift around or you accidentally bump them into furniture or cabinets, the bike’s sharp parts can potentially damage your RV’s interior. You can also damage the bikes. I’ve had my share of broken spokes from bike pedals wedging through them when transporting them.
Carrying Bikes in the Bed of your Pickup Truck or Tow Vehicle
Like storing your bikes inside your RV, you can also place them in the back of your truck or a large SUV. Again, this solution is free and doesn’t require much more than a few tie-down straps of bungee cords.
If you have a travel trailer, this usually isn’t an issue. However, Fifth Wheel RV owners will need to contend with the hitch, which can sometimes create issues when it comes to the space and movement of the hitch when turning.
When stored in your pickup truck, I advise you to store them standing up. Not only will this save space, but it will also reduce the likelihood of damaging the bikes.
Pros of Carrying your bikes inside your RV:
- Free: Since you already have the space and may already transport bikes this way when not camping, it’s a no-brainer instead of spending money on a rack.
- More secure: If tied down correctly, bikes inside your pickup bed will not shift around as much as when placed on the RV floor.
- Easy access: Unlike storing them in your RV, if you need to get to a bike, you can do so easily without needing to move things around, extend slides, or unpack other items.
Cons of Carrying your bikes inside your RV:
- Bulky: Bikes can take up a lot of space, and you may need your pickup truck bed to carry heavier items.
- Damage to bikes: Unless you take a lot of care to pack them, bike pedals can get locked inside wheel spokes and potentially damage your bike.
- Difficult packing: If you choose to put the bikes in last after your trailer is connected, you must lift them over the side wall of the truck bed. This can be hard, especially if you have a high-sitting truck. I suggest packing them before connecting the trailer so you can take advantage of the tailgate being lowered.
Bike Racks
The best way to transport bikes in your travel trailer or RV is to use a bike rack. Similar to what you may have for your vehicle, bike racks are widely available for RV. While some options may allow you to use the same rack you do when not towing, you may need to modify or purchase a rack specifically designed for your RV setup.
In just a bit, we’ll look at each of the bike rack types available on the market, but first, we’re going to discuss why you may or may not want to use a bike rack for your RV.
RV bike racks can be a great way to bring your bikes with you on your RV adventures. However, like any other accessory, they have pros and cons.
Pros of Bike Racks:
- Convenience: With a bike rack, you can easily transport your bikes on your RV without occupying precious interior or cargo space.
- Less messy: A bike rack can help keep your RV cleaner by ensuring the dirt, mud, and other bike grime stays outside. Nobody likes mopping tire tracks off their kitchen floor.
- Versatility: There are many types of bike racks available for RVs, including hitch-mounted, ladder-mounted, bumper-mounted, truck mounted, and tongue-mounted, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
- Accessibility: A bike rack makes it easy to access your bikes, so you can hit the trails or explore a new city on two wheels.
Cons of Bike Racks:
- Cost: A good-quality bike rack can be expensive, especially if you need one that can carry multiple bikes.
- Installation: Some bike racks can be difficult to install, requiring specialized tools or professional installation, which may be the case if you choose to install a rear hitch on your RV.
- Weight capacity: Depending on the type of RV you have and the bike rack you choose, you may be limited in the number of bikes you can carry or their weight. Some rack attachments will limit the weight they can carry.
- Security: A bike rack can make your bikes more vulnerable to theft, especially if you are staying in an unfamiliar area.
- Clearance: Depending on the RV bike rack type you choose, you may have limited clearance. While I don’t typically recommend mounting bikes to the roof of your RV (unless you have a Blass B van, you can run into problems with backing up if you don’t account for the extra space being your RV (with rear-mounted racks).
While there are some negatives, the advantages afforded by a bike rack make it the best option for transporting bikes. Next, let’s look at some of the best styles of RV bike racks so you can select the right bike rack for you. I’ll provide some suggestions for rack options for each mounting style but don’t limit your search to these. There are dozens of excellent options available, and the best bike racks will differ from setup to setup and person to person. I just tried to share my favorites.
Hitch-Mounted RV Bike Racks
For good reason, hitch-mounted racks are the most popular type of bike rack available. In fact, you may already have one that you use when you’re not camping. If you do, you’re in luck. With the correct setup, you can add it to the rear of your RV.
You will need a receiver hitch in the back of your RV to do this. This will be the same type of receiver you use to connect your trailer. You may need to install a hitch, but before heading to the hitch store, look. Many RVs will have a trailer hitch already installed just for this purpose.
If you don’t have a hitch, getting one professionally installed is not too difficult or expensive. Since you’re simply using it for bikes and not towing, you only need to lightweight one. There are many universal fit options available. Some will bolt to your trailer frame, while others need to be welded.
Both welded and bolted hitches will be more than adequate for carrying bikes or a cargo carrier. I always recommend professional installation with anything involving the frame, but if you’re confident in your abilities, you can install the bolt-style hitch yourself. Remember, you will be drilling into your frame so cautiously. However, the good news is that you will be drilling at the end of the frame, which is the best place to do it if you have to.
Welded Hitch
If you want or need the strongest hitch available, get it welded. This universal fit hitch frame mounted option is specifically designed for accessories such as bikes and cargo hitch racks. It can also be used for towing a second trailer (if that's allowed where you live or travel). The universal fit will work on most RV frame widths from 47-1/2" to 77". It has a maximum rating of 3,000 lbs. for towing and 300 lbs. for a vertical load (carrying things like bikes).
Bolted Hitch
Curt hitches are some of the best on the market, and this one is no different. It's super strong when installed, for 3,500 lbs. gross trailer weight and 350 lbs. tongue weight (carrying bikes or other items). This hitch has a standard 2-inch x 2-inch hitch receiver, allowing for various towing options. It can be used for dinghy towing, flat towing, or towing a trailer if allowed by state laws. It's also easy to install by securely bolting into the frame. It comes with mounting hardware, and you likely have the tools you need at home (drills, bit, and ratchet set. It fits RV frames up to 72 inches wide.
Bumper Clamp
This hitch simply clamps around your RV bumper and is a viable option for lighter bikes. However, this style hitch is not intended for heavier loads. Your bumper may look strong, but nowhere as strong as a dedicated hitch attached to the frame. This style of receiver should only be used for bikes. While the rating says it can handle 3,500 lbs. towing and 350 gross tongue weight, your bumper must also meet those requirements. Always check with your RV manufacturer before carrying anything more than bikes on this style of hitch receiver.
Once you have your receiver installed, add a bike rack as you would on the back of a car or SUV when you’re not camping. Depending on the rack, you may need an adapter from a 2″ to 1 ¼” rack, but you probably already know this if you own a hitch.
This hitch adapter fits 2-inch receivers and accepts a 1-1/4-inch shank
Selecting the Right Hitch Mount Bike Rack
The next step for carrying bikes on a hitch is to find the right rack. There are countless options on the market, from less than $100 to ones approaching $1,000. Before you go out and spend your hard-earned money, here are some tips for selecting the right rack:
- Hitch Receiver Compatibility: The first thing to consider when selecting a hitch-mounted bike rack is the compatibility with your vehicle’s hitch receiver. Most hitch-mounted bike racks come in two sizes: 1 ¼ inch and 2 inches. Purchase the correct size as your hitch, or you’ll also need an adapter.
- Bike Capacity: Consider the number of bikes you need to transport. Hitch-mounted bike racks can carry anywhere from one to five bikes, so choose a bike rack with a suitable load capacity for your needs. Remember that the more bikes you want to carry, the larger and heavier the bike rack will be, and you want to ensure your hitch setup can handle it.
- Bike Compatibility: The bike rack you choose should also be compatible with the type of bike you want to transport. Some bike racks are designed for specific bike types, such as road or mountain bikes, while others are more versatile and can accommodate a range of bike types.
- Bike Security: Bike theft is a real concern, so make sure the bike rack you choose has a secure locking system that will keep your bike safe. Look for bike racks with locking mechanisms for both the bikes and the rack itself. Bikes on the back of an RV are easy targets for thieves.
- Ease of Use: Look for a bike rack that is easy to install, load, and unload. While most are straightforward, more expensive models usually have better loading and unloading designs.
- Durability: Inexpensive no-name brand racks may be attractive from a cost perspective, but they may not last as long as a higher build quality rack. Bike racks take a beating when traveling, especially when it’s raining.
- Price: Finally, consider your budget. Hitch mount bike racks range from under $100 to several hundred dollars. If you only use a rack for short road trips, you may not need the $700 rack.
Top choice for Hitch-Mount Bike Rack:
This bike rack from Thule is a versatile option that fits nearly all styles of bikes up to 60 lbs each without any frame contact. Its HitchSwitch lever allows you to tilt the rack down for rear vehicle access or tilt it up when not in use. It has integrated cable locks to secure bikes to the rack and a locking knob to lock the rack to the hitch receiver. The rack fits 20 - 29" wheels and up to 5" tires without adapters, making it ideal for carbon frames, mountain, downhill, or fat bikes. The AutoAttach system makes installation and removal simple and tool-free. The rack can carry up to 4 bikes with Thule T2 Pro XT Add-On (sold separately, 9036XTB, 2" receiver only).
- Versatile design that fits nearly all styles of bikes up to 60 lbs each with zero frame contact
- The HitchSwitch lever allows easy rack tilting for rear vehicle access or when not in use.
- It fits 20 - 29" wheels and up to 5" tires without adapters, which is ideal for various types of bikes.
- Integrated cable locks provide security for bikes on the rack, while the locking knob secures the rack to the hitch receiver.
- Generous 12.5" spacing between bikes and the ability to adjust side to side to eliminate bike interference
- AutoAttach system makes installation and removal tool-free and hassle-free
- Can carry up to 4 bikes with the Thule T2 Pro XT Add-On (sold separately, 2" receiver only)
Bumper Mounted Racks
A bumper mount RV-approved bike rack is a type of bike rack that is designed to attach to the bumper of an RV or travel trailer. It allows you to transport your bikes outside your RV instead of taking up space inside.
Bumper mount bike rack typically consists of a sturdy metal frame that attaches directly to the bumper via a clamp-style mechanism. They must be bolted on (around the bumper), but most won’t require drilling.
Once installed, the bikes are secured to the rack using straps or clamps. Depending on the model, some bumper-mount bike racks can carry up to four bikes.
One advantage of using a bumper-mounted rack is that it is relatively easy to install and remove. In addition, the rack can be attached and detached from the bumper quickly, making it convenient for RVers who like to set up and break camp frequently. These racks are also typically less expensive than a gooseneck-style hitch rack.
However, bumper mount bike racks also have some drawbacks to consider. First, they can be less stable than other bike racks, especially if you carry multiple bikes or heavy bikes. The weight of the bikes can also put a strain on the bumper. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the bumper is strong enough to support the weight of the bike rack and the bikes. Some RV manufacturers do not recommend bumper-mount bike racks, so check your RV owner’s manual before installing one.
Top Bumper Mounted Bike Rack
The Swagman RV bumper rack is a heavy-duty steel rack designed for transporting 1 to 4 bicycles on an RV or camper trailer bumper. It is specifically designed to fit 4" to 4.5" square RV bumpers and can hold up to 30 lbs per bike. The rack is simple to use and supports various bike sizes, frames, and wheels. It installs with steel U-bolts and features an upright bar for added bike support while towing. However, it is not recommended for use on aluminum or spot-welded bumpers. Swagman is a company dedicated to designing products that make the transportation of bikes easier and more convenient.
- Can transport 1 to 4 bicycles on an RV or camper trailer bumper
- Designed for 4" to 4.5" square RV bumpers
- Heavy-duty steel construction with black paint finish and powder-coated to resist corrosion
- Can hold up to 30 lbs per bike
- Installs with steel U-bolts around the RV bumper
- Features an upright bar in the center of the rack for added bike support while towing
- Simple to use and supports various bike sizes, frames, and wheels
- Specifically designed for RV use and camper trailers
Ladder Mounted Bike Racks
If your RV has a ladder, you’re in luck. You can actually purchase a bike rack designed to be installed on it. A ladder-mount RV bike rack is a type of bike rack that is designed to attach to the ladder on the back of an RV. Ladder mounts are a popular option for RVers who want to carry bikes without installing a hitch or taking up storage space inside the RV.
The ladder mount bike rack typically consists of a metal frame and attaches to the RV’s ladder with straps or hooks. Since your ladder will have a weight limit and is usually bolted to the wall of your RV, you won’t be able to carry a lot of bikes. While not very common, an improperly loaded ladder-mounted rack can actually damage your RV if exceeding the weight limits of the ladder (not only the rack).
Also, bikes will bounce around when traveling and put a vertical strain on the ladder. This is why it’s so essential to check weights. Most ladder racks will be smaller for this reason and may only carry two bikes.
One advantage of using a ladder-mount bike rack is that it is relatively easy to install and remove. The rack can be attached and detached from the ladder quickly. Additionally, ladder bike racks are lightweight and compact, making them easy to store when not in use.
One final drawback of a ladder rack is that if you need to access your roof, you must take the rack off. However, I don’t spend a lot of time on my RV roof, so it’s not a common problem. But, if you are on and off the roof for each trip (maybe installing a cool Starlink Satellite Dish), I can see this being a pain.
Before you purchase this style rack, check your owner’s manual. It may expressly state whether or not you can safely install this type of rack. You don’t want to get to the campsite with missing bikes and a missing ladder- Yikes!
Top RV Ladder-Mount Bike Rack Recommendation
The Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack is a convenient and secure way to transport up to two bikes on an RV ladder. The Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack is a reliable and convenient option for transporting bikes on an RV. Its easy installation, secure bike hold, added security, maximum weight capacity, convenient storage, and ease of use. This is a good value if you have a ladder that can hold a rack.
Here are some key features of this bike rack:
- Easy installation: The bike rack is designed to fit onto standard RV ladders so that it can be easily installed without additional tools or modifications.
- Secure bike hold: The form-fit cradles securely hold your bikes, keeping them stable and preventing them from wobbling or scratching against each other during transport.
- Added security: Bonus straps provide additional security, ensuring your bikes stay in place during transit.
- Maximum weight capacity: The bike rack can hold up to two bikes with a maximum combined weight rating of 60 lb, making it suitable for most standard bike models.
- Convenient storage: The bike rack can be easily folded, making it an excellent choice for those with limited space for storing bulky items such as bike racks.
- Easy to use: The bike rack features soft grip handles and locking pins to keep it securely in place, making it simple to use and providing peace of mind during transit.
Front Tounger Mounted Bike Racks
Did you only ever consider carrying bikes on a rack on the back of your RV? If you have a travel trailer, you have one other option. A handful of racks are designed to carry bikes in front of your RV, between the RV and the truck. These are a much different style rack, but they take advantage of the strong RV frame at the tongue, allowing you to use this otherwise wasted space with your bikes.
This style rack is designed for typical travel trailer setups, typically with two propane tanks, a propane tank cover, and a single battery compartment. While they may work on other less common setups, you will want to read more about them before investing in this style rack.
This style jack, at least from the one I recommend below, mounts over the tongue jack. It has a Y-style frame that carries the bike above the propane tanks. It’s very secure, but you’re limited in how many bikes it can carry.
This style rack’s benefits are that it keeps the bikes closer to the hitch, meaning they won’t bounce around as much. It also shields them from road grime and water, a common problem with any rear bike rack. Additionally, you will be using space that was previously wasted.
A few downsides to consists include its limited applications. These are designed for bumper pull trailers. You can’t use them on a fifth wheel or motorhome. Also, they may prevent access to your propane tanks without removing the racks. If you need to fill your tanks, wai
Top Pick for a Tongue Mount Bike Racks
The Jack-It double bike carrier from Let's Go Aero lets you transport your bikes quickly and safely while freeing up your travel trailer's rear hitch/cargo space. Overall, the Jack-It double bike carrier from Let's Go Aero is a reliable and innovative solution for transporting your bikes while traveling with your trailer. Its compatibility with most trailers has a lightweight design, high weight capacity, wheel-mounted bike hold, and patented design.
- Fits all bike frames: The Jack-It carrier fits all bike frames, making it a versatile option for most standard bike models.
- Frees up rear hitch/cargo area: By installing it over the tongue jack on the trailer's A-Frame, the Jack-It carrier frees up the rear hitch/cargo area, allowing you to carry additional gear.
- Lightweight design: The Jack-It carrier weighs only 25 pounds, making it easy to install and maneuver.
- High weight capacity: With a total weight capacity of 80 pounds, the Jack-It carrier can safely and securely transport two bikes.
- Compatible with most trailers: The carrier fits most A-Frame travel and cargo trailers, making it a convenient option for many travelers.
- Wheel-mounted bike hold: The carrier holds your bikes by the wheels, providing balance, stability, and ease of use during transit.
- PowerTower frame protection: The PowerTower frame protects the tongue jack from impact, ensuring that your bikes and trailer stay safe during transport.
- Patented design: The Jack-It carrier features a patented design that sets it apart from other bike carriers on the market.
Pickup Truck Bike Rack
One final bike rack worth considering is one that mounts to your truck bed. Again, there are several different options, but they can get expensive. Some options will look like truck ladder racks and raise the bikes out of the bed. For many of these setups, you must install the bars and select a separate mount, much like installing a roof rack on a car.
However, my favorite style truck bike rack uses an adjustable crossbar that spans the width of the truck bed. A v-style mount then clamps to the bar for attaching the bikes. Below is my top choice for an easy setup.
Top Truck Bike Rack Carrier
Carrying E-Bikes with your travel trailer
About ten years ago, this wouldn’t be a suggestion in this article. However, the rise of e-bikes creates a need to discuss special transportation considerations. For the most part, they will carry like a regular bike. However, E-bikes will tend to be heavier, so whatever setup you choose, check the weights and ensure you’re not exceeding them (both the weights of the rack and connection to the vehicle).
I highly recommend against carrying E-bikes on anything other than a bolted or welded-on receiver hitch. A bumper or ladder rack is not secure enough for these heavier bikes. Also, you don’t want to risk having the rack fail with your expensive bikes.
Additionally, some standard bike racks may not be able to accommodate an e-bike. This is true whether it’s an RV-approved rack or not. E-bikes may have thicker frames and may require a special mount to attach them. If in doubt, check with your bike manufacturer for recommended racks.
Finally, ensure your rack can lock securely to the frame (hitch) and the bikes to the rack. While regular bikes are popular targets for thieves, e-bikes are their cash cow.
Top choice for an e-bike rack
The Volt RV Bike Rack is an exclusive design for RVs, featuring a strengthened hitch mount carrier that fits Class 3 or higher hitch receivers for extra safety on the road. The bike rack has a total capacity of 140 lbs, supporting up to 70 lbs per rack, and is compatible with different types of bikes, including mountain bikes, electric bikes, and road bikes. The bike frame is secured in place with co-injected soft rubberized ratcheting hooks, while adjustable wheel holders accommodate bikes of different sizes. The rack is easy to move around with a carrying handle and can be hung on the wall for storage. The Volt RV Bike Rack fits 2-inch hitch receivers, and an anti-wobble ½ inch steel pin and a key lockset keep the rack sturdy and secure. However, the tire tray has limitations and fits only 20" to 29" wheels and 1" to 5" tire width.
Key Points:
- Strengthened hitch mount carrier for Class 3 or higher hitch receivers
- The total capacity of 140 lbs, supporting up to 70 lbs per rack
- Compatible with different types of bikes and adjustable wheel holders
- Secured with co-injected soft rubberized ratcheting hooks and additional security straps
- Easy to move with a carrying handle and can be hung on the wall for storage
- Fits 2-inch hitch receivers with anti-wobble ½ inch steel pin and a key lockset
- Tire tray limitations: fits 20" to 29" wheels and 1" to 5" tire width.
A Few Final Tips
- Drive carefully: When carrying bikes on your RV, they can bounce around and, if not secured properly, they can fall off, and you wouldn’t even know.
- Check your racks: Whenever you stop while traveling, walk around your RV and make sure everything is secured.
- Be careful of backing up: You may be used to your trailer size, but if you forget about your bike rack, you can easily back into something.
- Beware of thieves: Since most bike rack options place your bikes behind the RV, even when you stop for gas, it’s easy for someone to snatch them without you even knowing. Always ensure your bikes are locked, and you’re aware of your surroundings. This is especially true if you’re stopping overnight and not removing the bikes.
Conclusion
When looking for the best RV bike racks, you will have many products to choose from. However, the best choice will be one that fits your RV, mounting options, and the type of bikes you plan to carry. For example, if you’re looking for a great universal option, I suggest a hitch mount style rack with a frame-mount receiver rather than attached to the number. Other options, like a ladder and bumper mounts, work well, but you will be limited in how much weight you can carry.
I also like truck mount racks, but these are limited travel trailers. The most important factors are to choose a rack that fits your bike, weight, and RV. Having all of this figured out before you go bike rack shopping is a good idea. Regardless of what option you choose, enjoy yourself and the many miles you’ll be racking up on two wheels while camping.
I have been researching this lately and more and more companies I talk to say do NOT install a bike rack into a hitch receiver on the back of an RV…ever! There is some sort of vibration that actually wears the metal and all that bouncing will absolutely lead to a failure in the bike rack. One of the companies I talked to said one of their customers had this happen and someone died as a result. They will never install one on the back of an RV again.
I think the best options are going to be in the RV or in the tow vehicle. They suggested a rack mounted on the front of the truck.